10 Incredible Places In Massachusetts That Will Bring Out The Explorer In You

These natural spots offer amazing adventures that are easy, accessible and affordable. Maybe you think you’re not the hiking, swimming or climbing type. Or maybe you don’t think there’s anything in Massachusetts that would qualify as a true adventure. Well, these spots will convince you otherwise. These gorgeous natural spots are easy to discover and perfect for novice and veteran explorers alike.

This reservation combines the best elements of land and sea. With over 66 acres of breathtaking ocean vistas and plenty of hikeable woodland trails, you'll get your fill of fresh, salty air while feeling like the ordinary world is thousands of miles away. There are also many blooming beach peas and beach roses that scent the air with their unique fragrance. This is one of the most dramatic and beautiful seaside natural reserves in the state.

These stunning arches look like something out of a storybook, and they're amazing to explore. Featuring short and long hikes, lovely views and accessible trails in all weather, this is one combination of manmade and natural beauty that you won't want to skip. The trails are dog-friendly, so you can bring the pooch.

There are about There are about 130 actual dinosaur footprints scattered throughout this reservation. You can one of the dozens of dinosaur trackways, and literally walk in the footsteps of the ancient giants. Unlike preserved footprints in a museum, visitors are allowed to touch and examine these awesome relics.

As you might have guessed from the name, High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary offers lots of great, climbable ledges that afford remarkable views over the landscape. If you don't feel like scrambling over rocks, this place is also perfectly suited for a quiet hike.

This is one of those places that doesn't show up in tourist guides, and even many natives don't know it exists. However, strolling along Wood End Bar will give you the unique feeling of walking out across the ocean itself. This stunning spit of sandy land extends out into the gentle surf just off of Provincetown, and is extremely narrow. After a gorgeous and easy 30-45 minutes walk, you'll reach Wood End Light. Beautiful and secluded, it's the perfect place to get away from it all.

Located in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, Easthampton’s Manhan Rail Trail is a great way to travel through the beauty of the region. You can bike, jog, cross country ski or even rollerblade along this 6-mile, paved recreational trail. It was once an operational rail corridor, but now it's one of our favorite places to get some fresh air.

A farm might not sound like the most adventurous locale. However, Cornell Farm offers trails that wind through pasture and planted fields, leading you some extremely lovely natural scenes. This farm has been passed down through five generations, and is now open to the public for exploration. For one of the coolest spots, head down on the trail that passes through an oak forest and drops you off at the head of a peaceful salt marsh by the Little River.

Visiting Massachusetts' highest waterfall makes for some truly adventurous memories. This massive cascade is only a quick hike from a parking area and will leave you with plenty of epic pictures to prove what an explorer you are.

Okay, so this one isn't exactly a specific place, but taking this awesome day trip will make you feel like you're heading out on an old-fashioned railway adventure. The train is one of the best ways to experiences the beauty of the Berkshire Hills between North Adams and Adams, and the 1-hour trip won't eat up your whole day.

Take a magical winter horseback ride with Ridge Valley Riding Stables. They offer experiences that are perfect for people who have never even sat on a horse before, and their horseback excursions are conducted all across the state. This is the perfect way to step outside your everyday routine without getting too crazy. It’s only $40 per person for a 1-hour ride, $50 for a 1-hour private ride and $60 per person for a 1.5-hour ride. (Ridge Valley Riding Stables is located at 286 Upton Street, Grafton MA 01519)